Text Messaging for Childhood Obesity

(MW-PRCCRP Trial)

This trial tests whether text messages can assist families with children who have obesity (high body weight for their age) by promoting healthier habits. The study examines the effectiveness of text messages, both alone and with additional support from community teams, in motivating families to participate in a program focused on healthy eating and physical activity. This method, known as text message-based recruitment, aims to engage families effectively. Families with children aged 5 to 12, identified through health records and who have not opted out of text messages, may be suitable for this trial. The main goal is to determine how many families join and remain in the program and to observe changes in the child's weight over time. As an unphased trial, this study provides families the opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance children's health habits.

The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications. It seems focused on lifestyle changes rather than medication adjustments.

Earlier studies have shown that using text messages in health programs can improve health and weight. One study found that a 3-month program using text messages improved children's eating habits and attitudes towards exercise. Another study showed that families receiving digital support, including text messages, had lower obesity rates after two years.

For follow-up support, research suggests that phone calls for health advice keep people engaged. Studies on mobile health programs for childhood obesity indicate they are generally safe and promote healthy habits.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores innovative ways to combat childhood obesity using technology. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve in-person counseling or medication, this trial leverages text messaging to engage families. The messages are not just one-way; they allow for interactive communication with a one-touch response option, providing a direct link to a Family Healthy Weight Program. Additionally, some participants receive personalized support through phone outreach from a Community Implementation Team. This approach is promising because it makes support more accessible and convenient, potentially increasing participation and effectiveness in managing obesity.

This trial will evaluate different text messaging strategies to manage childhood obesity. Participants in the TM-Repeat arm will receive repeated bidirectional text messages over a 3-month period, while those in the TM-Single arm will receive a single text message. Some participants will also receive additional telephone outreach from the local Community Implementation Team in the TM-Repeat-AO and TM-Single-AO arms. Studies have shown that text messages can help manage childhood obesity, leading to lower obesity rates and better health in children over time. Specifically, one study found that families who received digital messages saw a significant drop in obesity rates in their children after 24 months. Other research has shown that children in a text message program developed healthier eating habits and a better attitude towards exercise. Additionally, follow-up phone calls can enhance the effectiveness of these programs by helping families adopt healthier lifestyles.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰